Former footballer Joey Barton has been convicted of assaulting his wife during an incident at their home in southwest London in June 2021. The 42-year-old was given a 12-week sentence, suspended for two years, meaning he will not go to prison unless he commits another offense. Barton was also ordered to pay a victim surcharge and court costs totaling £2,183.
The Assault Incident
The court heard that Barton pushed his wife, Georgia, over and kicked her in the head after an argument started during a drinking session with two other couples. The assault left Mrs. Barton, 38, with a lump on her forehead and a bleeding nose. The children were asleep upstairs during the incident. Mrs. Barton called 999 and told police her husband had hit her, but later sent a letter retracting her statement.
Court Proceedings
Barton was arrested in his bedroom while still drunk on the night of the attack. During the trial, his defense lawyer suggested the injury may have been sustained accidentally. However, magistrate Paul Goldspring described Barton’s story as “vague” and found the 999 call to be “compelling evidence.” The trial had been due to take place in 2022 but was adjourned after Mrs. Barton sent a letter claiming her injuries were accidental.
Response to Verdict
Speaking outside court, Barton said he was “really disappointed” with the verdict and intended to appeal the decision. He later posted on the social media platform X that he was especially disappointed after “a judge 2 and a half years ago in Wimbledon Magistrates ruled in my favour.” The couple is still together despite the incident.
Barton’s History
Barton’s career has been plagued by controversy. In 2012, he was sent off for elbowing Carlos Tevez, kicking Sergio Agüero, and attempting to headbutt Vincent Kompany during a match. In August 2015, he was set to sign with West Ham United after being released by Queens Park Rangers, but the deal fell through after reported protests from fans unhappy with his potential signing.